THE ancient thoroughfares of York are set to come alive with colour, dance, music and arts.

Organisers of the city's carnival, in May, have added an arts extravaganza to the annual event, which will take place on May 3 to May 5, as an extension to the student-led festival that has taken place for the last three years.

Bringing what were previously known as the live music and dance festivals together, the new event will encourage combined arts and collaboration between local groups and individuals to show their work in the city.

Emily Harvey, events and festivals manager for City Of York Council, said: "Carnival weekend will be a celebration of our creative culture, with local residents, voluntary and community groups, local musicians and dance groups all taking part.

"We hope people will join in and visit what promises to be a fantastic weekend. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase York's creativity and talent. We look forward to bringing the streets to life with a fun weekend of participation and celebration."

The city's fourth May carnival will include live performances, with a dance showcase, family ceilidh, live music performances and the popular carnival procession, which will see thousands of York residents take to the streets.

Last year more than 200 children from York schools marched through the city's cobbled streets alongside African and samba drummers, a steel band, rock bands and gospel choirs.

The carnival was conceived by University of York student Jessica Brand in 2004. From humble beginnings, it attracted an audience of more than 5,000 people last year.

The event, supported by the council and city's two universities, aims to showcase the "skill, creativity and enthusiasm" of te city's residents.

To run an event at the carnival, email Portia Simpson at portia.simpson@york.gov.uk or phone 01904 554 257.